Laboratory Testing
Laboratory tests are often essential for accurate diagnosis. We have a range of in-house equipment for rapid results, and use trusted external laboratories for more specialised analysis.
In-house testing
Our in-house lab allows us to run many common tests within minutes — useful for emergency cases, pre-anaesthetic checks, and when you need a quick answer.
- Haematology — red and white blood cell counts, clotting screens
- Biochemistry — liver, kidney, electrolyte and protein profiles
- Thyroid testing — total T4 levels for the diagnosis and monitoring of thyroid disease
- Urinalysis — protein, glucose, sediment, specific gravity
- Microscopy — skin scrapes, ear samples, cytology of lumps and fluids
- Rapid in-house tests — feline leukaemia/FIV, parvovirus, and others
External laboratory
For more specialised tests we send samples to an accredited external veterinary laboratory. Results typically come back within a week and include:
- Hormone testing (cortisol and others not available in-house)
- Allergy testing
- Histopathology (analysis of removed tissue and biopsies)
- Bacterial culture and sensitivity
- Specialist immunology and infectious-disease panels
When tests might be recommended
Common reasons for blood and urine testing include:
- Investigating illness — when symptoms aren’t enough on their own
- Pre-anaesthetic screening — particularly in older patients, to check organ function before surgery
- Monitoring chronic conditions (diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid disease)
- Routine senior health checks
Your vet will explain what tests are being suggested, what they’re looking for, and the cost before going ahead.